Month: December 2023

The BIBLE VIEW #938 — Don’t Tolerate Evil

In This Issue:
Should A Christian Tolerate Sin?
Steps in Accepting Evil
Toleration of Sin Is Not Biblical
Because Christians Were Silent
You Are Not Alone

Volume: 938    December 31, 2023
Theme: Don’t Tolerate Evil

Should A Christian Tolerate Sin?  
Bill Brinkworth

“And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” Matthew 21:12-13

The world, and unfortunately many Christians, have the wrong idea as to how a Christian should behave.  Many are convinced that a Christian should be tolerant of those doing wrong, be polite, and never tell anyone that, according to the Word of God, they are doing wrong.  Nowhere in the Bible is tolerance to sin suggested.

In verses 12 and 13, we see a contrary example to the pathetic, polite, and “proper” image that most think marks the behavior of a Christian.  In this example, the person who did the opposite was the Saviour Himself – Jesus.

Jesus saw what man had done to the house of God.  Some wanted to make money, so they devised enterprising plans to make a “buck” using the Jewish religion.  They knew the Jews attending the temple were supposed to present animal sacrifices to the priest so their sins would be “covered.”  The attendees themselves were to bring their sheep, doves, oxen, and offerings.

Those exploiters saw an opportunity to make some quick cash from lazy Jews.  They set up tables in the back of the temple and sold those animals to those wanting to give their gifts to the priests.  Soon, the back of the temple was teaming with wildlife and vendors, all trying to make a living on the lazy worshippers. 

The house of God had been turned into a “den of thieves.”  Jesus saw what was happening.  He did not walk quietly and timidly up to the vendors and politely ask them, “Please, gentlemen, take your ambitious enterprise outside the gate, where you can enjoy the sunshine.”

No, sir, He did not. He went up to the tables, threw out the moneychangers, and overturned the tables.  Jesus knew what was right, and that was not the right thing to do in the house of prayer.  There was no hint of polite “tolerance” anywhere in this account or the other accounts in Luke 19:45-46 and Mark 11:15-18.

In another account, possibly three years prior to that event, Jesus did even more to the “thieves” (John 2:14-16).  He not only pushed over their tables, but He chased the vendors out with a whip of chords.

Tolerating sin is not mentioned in the Bible.  When a Christian sees something is wrong, he must speak out.  We are supposed to be the “salt” to change the flavor of this world that naturally will not do right in God’s eyes.  A Christian must also be the “light” in this sin-darkened world.  A Christian would make more changes to this world if he stopped putting up with sin and took a stand against it! 

Putting up with sin and turning “the other cheek” is quite often a cowardly act if one is afraid to make a stand!  This world has gotten so wicked because Christians have not stood up against what is wrong.  It is our responsibility to warn others of the dangers of sin. If we do not stand against sin, who will? 

“To sin by silence, when they should protest, makes cowards of men.” 
— Abraham Lincoln


Steps in Accepting Evil
Author Unknown

“First, we overlook evil,
Then we permit evil,
Then we legalize evil,
Then we promote evil,
Then we celebrate evil,
Then we persecute those who still call it evil.” —    Author Unknown

“Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” Isaiah 5:20


Toleration of Sin Is Not Biblical
“He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.” Proverbs 17:15
“And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” Romans 1:28-32   Also: Isaiah 5:20.

“Tolerance is a virtue for those who have no convictions.” — Author Unknown

Because Christians Were Silent
Bill Brinkworth

Christians are responsible for sharing the Gospel and the truths from the Word of God.  However, many believers have not done as they are biblically commanded.  They are not the society-changing “salt” or the sin-revealing “light” God requires them to be.  As a result of many’s refusal, rebellion, and ignorance to do as they are commanded, others have suffered. 
“Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” Mat.5:13  Also: Mark 9:50, Luke 14:34.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Mat. 5:16  Also: Luke 1:79, John 11:10.

Here are some of the damages and sufferings caused by those who know better but fail to uphold their responsibilities.

  • Millions of people will spend an eternity in Hell because they never heard the Gospel.  Many Christians were “embarrassed,” ashamed, afraid, or too proud to tell others about God’s way to Heaven.
    “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?” Rom. 10:14
  • Millions of people will live a life sinning and defiant to God because they never heard the truth nor ever saw a good Christian example.
    “And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? 31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.” Acts 8:30
  • Millions do not know what the Bible teaches as they have never heard biblical truths nor have seen one living the way God commands. Since they have never heard biblical truths, they have incorrectly supposed what they think the Bible teaches or believed false teachings.
    “For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.” Rom. 10:3  Also: Phil. 3:9.
  • Millions think they are going to Heaven because of the good deeds they have done, as so many “Christians” have not taught them otherwise. That fallacy is the foundation of many false religions.
    “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Eph. 2:8-9
  • Millions thought there was no difference between a Christian and the lost because they never saw any variance between the two groups. They have not witnessed holy living. The toleration of sin by many confessing Christians has also added to the confusion of the lost.
    “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,” II Cor. 6:17

Some of those millions could be your loved ones, neighbors, or friends. They may suffer a terrifying eternity because of your closed lips.  Share the truths of the Bible and Gospel now.  It may be too late to change the godless direction of society, but at least a Christian can hear the “… Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things …” from one’s Saviour, Jesus Christ (Mat. 25:21, 23), and one may make a great difference in some lives.

“The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything.” — Albert Einstein

You Are Not Alone
Harry Todd

As you witness for the Saviour
It is a spiritual fight
Sometimes, you will stand alone
Making a stand for Christ.

People will think you’re odd
If you don’t go their way
But live to please the Saviour
No matter what they say.

Keep your standards high.
Don’t let others drag you down.
Just look for the approaching day
When you’ll wear the victor’s crown.

You may think you are alone,
When you stand for what is true
But remember, you’re a Christian
So the Holy Spirit dwells in you.

So remember when you’re alone,
God is with you, it is true;
He has given you the Comforter
Who always dwells in you.

The BIBLE VIEW #937 — Christmas

In This Issue:
Where’s My Present?
Giving God What He Gave Us
The Reason for the Season
The First and Last Time He Comes

Volume: 937    December 18, 2023
Theme: Christmas

Where’s My Present? 
Bill Brinkworth

“Happy Bill’s birthday!” welcomed another party-goer.  “Wait until you see what I got you,” as the present was removed from its hiding place behind his back.

“You got me something?  Oh, wow,” was the exclamation as the curly bow was hurriedly ripped from the gift.

As the gift-receiver tore off the wrapping paper, another excited voice gleefully proclaimed on the other side of the room, “And I got you something, too.”

An ecstatic voice shrilled, “For me?” as she received the large, carefully wrapped package.  Several in the celebration gravitated to that part of the room to see what excited her.

The gift-giver smiled as he could tell his thoughtfulness was appreciated.  He watched her carefully remove the packaging tape and responded with the customary, “Happy Bill’s birthday.”

Soon most of the gathering attendees were giving someone a package they produced from hiding places.  The room was filled with sounds of ripping paper and “You shouldn’t have”s.  A surprised couple of “Oh, I didn’t get you anything”s could also be heard scattered about the room.

In all the gift-giving excitement, no one noticed the surprised person enter the room from the stairwell.  He moved from group to group, almost unnoticed.  As he moved to the child admiring her new laptop, she made sure he saw it and outstretched it to him to get a better look.  “Why, it’s a great one,” he remarked.  After he was shown it, she immediately returned to her group and grabbed another package she was handed.

On he drifted to another group on the other side of the room.  “Oh, it’s Bill!” exclaimed the one standing closest to him.  “Happy birthday, Bill.”

After hearing that name, most in the room stopped their gift-giving and opening and turned to the visitor and echoed, “Hello, Bill.” Some greeted him with, “Happy birthday, Bill.” Hands waved at him.  

One “Hey, old man” echoed inside the dining room.  Throughout the room, giggles ensued over that remark.  It was not long until all turned back to their peers and engaged in their party activities.  Bill was once again left to himself.

Soon, the party got back on track, and Bill stood alone.  No one even heard him sadly whisper, “And where’s my present?  It’s my birthday!”

Forgotten at one’s own birthday party would be horrifying and heartbreaking, however, it happens every year.  A day put aside years ago by our Christian-oriented forefathers to remember the birth of Christ is still practiced by most but has lost its true meaning. 

Gifts are given to one another.  Feasts are prepared for those attending family gatherings.  Benevolence is at an all-time high.  Even the least unfortunate are remembered and given something by strangers. 

Festivities are displayed everywhere in the decorations throughout towns and decorations on trees in living rooms.  Unfortunately, like Bill’s party, the purpose of the celebration is often forgotten.  The reason for the Christmas season is to remember the birth of our Saviour, Jesus.  Sadly, He is little remembered or honored.  In some circles, even mention of His name is forbidden.

This year, make your Christmas different.  Ignore the world’s tendency to remove any mention of Christ on the day that was put aside to honor His birth.  Let all know that Jesus is the reason for the season with as many opportunities to say “Merry Christmas” as possible.

Above all, make sure you give the Reason for the season the best gift of all.  No, Christ has no desire for any material present.  He desires your heart, your time, and your devotion.   All year long, give to Him:

  • Your obedience to His Commandments:
    “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” John 14:15
  • The praise He deserves:
    “I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high.” Psalms 7:17
  • Your willingness to live for Him:
    “Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.” Psalms 100:2
  • Your love:
    “And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Deut. 6:5
    “My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.” Pro.  23:26

This year, give the Lord what He wants — you!

“ This year, I did not see one reminder that the Christmas season is about Jesus.  His birth was not remembered in one television program, not in one store, not in any town-wide decorations.  I did not even see one manger scene!  It has happened, at least where I live, that Jesus was banned from His own birth remembrance!  What a sad season Christmas has become!” — Bill Brinkworth


Giving God What He Gave Us
Author Unknown

A little girl told an older friend that she would give her papa a pair of slippers for Christmas.  “Where will you get your money?” asked the friend.

The little girl opened her eyes wide and said, “Why, Father will give me the money.” The friend was silent as he realized the father would buy his own Christmas present.  Even though the father paid for his own present, it still thrilled him to receive his daughter’s gift.

All that we give the Lord is given to us by Him. When we give Him anything, it is, as was the small child, only giving Him something He gave or allowed us to have.  Still, God loves it when we give to Him. Putting God first in our lives thrills Him.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” James 1:17

“The best gift is not under our tree; it was on the tree at Calvary!” — Roy Phillips


The Reason for the Season
Deb McCoy

Christmas is a joyous time of the year,
Displays of decorations, lights, and holiday cheer.
So much commotion and excitement overflows,
And don’t forget the gifts and children’s faces all aglow.

Let’s take a moment and reflect on that very first Christmas night,
The angel had announced the birth of the Savior to bring the world Light.
Born in a dark stable came our most gifted treasure,
Our gratitude and praises no price can we measure.

Celebrating Christmas should be a reflection of selflessness and love,
The window of the soul is illuminated by the Spirit of Christmas sent from above.
This year may peace on Earth and goodwill to men,
Be reflected in each of us time and again.

May you be filled with the joy of this holiday season,
Let it shine in your heart and be reminded of its true reason.
It’s all about Jesus.  What gift will you bring?
Salvation in Christ will make your heart sing.

This Christmas and throughout the coming year.
Discover the riches of this treasure, and may your heart be filled with holiday cheer.
Celebrate Christ this Christmas, and you will find,
Hope and comfort offered to all mankind.

Sign outside a church one month before Christmas: “Come on in, and avoid the Christmas rush.”


The First and Last Time He Comes
Oliver B. Greene

The Lord Jesus Christ, whom we should exalt, especially on Christmas, is not just a baby in a manger.  He is not a character in a children’s story.  He is far more.

  • The first time He came, He came veiled in the form of a child.  The next time He comes, and we believe it will be soon, He will come unveiled, and it will be abundantly and immediately apparent to all the world just who He really is.
  • The first time He came, a star marked His arrival.  The next time He comes, the heavens will roll up like a scroll, and all the stars will fall out of the sky, and He will light it.
  • The first time He came, there was no room for Him.  The next time He comes, the whole world will be unable to contain His glory.
  • The first time He came, only a few attended His arrival — some.  The next time He comes, every eye shall see Him.
  • The first time Jesus came as a baby.  Soon, He will come as Sovereign King and Lord.

“I am the one that is making the list, and I don’t have to check it twice!”
— God

The BIBLE VIEW #936 — Christmas

In This Issue:
Costly Christmas
Prophecies about Christ’s Birth
Jesus’ Birth
 The Borrower
Jesus’ Birth: According to Luke 2

 Volume: 936     December 11, 2023
Theme: Christmas

Read the FREE typeset version of this newsletter at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html (Click on #936).  Use it for your church bulletin inserts or as a ministry handout.


Costly Christmas
Author Unknown

  • It cost Mary and Joseph the comforts of home during a long exile in Egypt to protect the little Babe.
  • It cost mothers in and around Bethlehem the massacre of their babies by the cruel order of Herod (Matthew 2:16).
  • It cost the shepherds the complacency of their shepherds’ lives, as they had to drop their watching of sheep to see the Christ child.
  • It cost the early apostles and the early church persecution and sometimes death.
  • It cost missionaries for Christ untold suffering to spread the Good News that the promised Messiah had come.
  • More than all this, it cost God the Father His only Son.  He sent Him to Earth to save men from Hell.
  • It cost Jesus a life of sacrifice and service.  He died a cruel death.

Is Christmas Too Costly?

  • It is, if all that it means is gift exchanges.
  • It is, if all that it means is tinsel.
  • It is, if all that it means is millions spent on the commercialized Christmas.
  • It is, if all that it means is a holiday.

It Wasn’t Too Costly

  • If it means the hope of the world.
  • If it means the forgiveness of sin
  • If it means peace among men.

“Selfishness makes Christmas a burden.  Love makes it a delight!”


Prophecies about Christ’s Birth
Bill Brinkworth

Long before Christ’s birth, the Bible described His coming.  Here are some of the many prophecies and the approximate dates they were foretold.

  • 1872 B. C. was when it was told He would be of Abraham’s lineage.  Genesis 22:18 
  • 742 B. C. was when Isaiah said the Child would be born of a virgin.
    “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14
  • 740 B. C. was when Isaiah foretold that the child would be God in the flesh, amongst His other abilities.
    “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6  Some of this verse  was fulfilled when Christ was born.
  • 740 B. C. was when Hosea said the Child would live in Egypt and be called out of it (Hosea 11:1).  This prophecy was fulfilled in Matthew 2:13-14.
  • 713 B. C. was when it was foretold (Isaiah 11:1) that the child would be of Jesse’s family line.
  • 590 B. C. was when it was said that He would be a descendant of King David.  (Jeremiah 23:5-6)
  • 510 B. C. was when it was prophesied that the Saviour would be born in Bethlehem and of the tribe of Judah.
    “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” Micah 5:2   The prophecy was fulfilled in Luke 2:4-7.
  • Psalms 2:7 states He would be the Son of God.  Luke 3:22 tells of the fulfillment of that prophecy.

The birth of Jesus was not an ordinary birth of just any person.  It was a well-planned, special event by God.  The birth of Christ ushered in God’s promise that a Saviour would come, and through belief in Him, anyone could have God’s promise of eternal life.

“Christmas began in the heart of God.  It is complete only when it reaches the heart of man.” — Religious Telescope


Jesus’ Birth
C. H. Spurgeon

We esteem every day alike, but as the season suggests thoughts of Jesus, let us joyfully remember our dear Redeemer’s glorious birth.  Who but He was ever longed for by such a multitude of hearts?  When else did angels indulge in midnight songs, or did God hang a new star in the sky?  To whose cradle did rich and poor make so willing a pilgrimage and offer such hearty and unsought oblations?  Well may Earth rejoice; well may all men cease their labor to celebrate “the great birthday” of Jesus.  Let gladness rule the hour.  Let holy song and sweet music accompany our souls in the raptures of joy.

“Each recurring Christmas gives occasion to emphasize anew the wonderful story of the love of God that led Him to send His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.”  — H. A. Ironside


The Borrower
Kenneth McKenzie

He borrowed a stable in which to be born;
And later confessed that he had no bed.
He borrowed a basket that bright spring morn;
Sent the people away, their hunger fed.

He borrowed a boat from which to preach
His Father’s love to sinful men;
They stood that day on Galilee’s beach,
Longing to hear his message again.

He borrowed a donkey on which to ride
With royal blessings from on high;
To hear the proud city his name deride,
Scornfully bidding him pass by.

He borrowed a room in which to meet
His friends, the sacred feast to keep of old;
But the towel to dry his disciples’ feet
Was not his nor the holy table His to hold.

He borrowed a cross on which to die,
A ransom from sin, a life laid down.
He borrowed a tomb in which to lie
Yet the great universe was his own.


Jesus’ Birth: According to Luke 2

1 ¶ And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
 6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
 8 ¶ And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
 15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
 16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
 17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
 18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

The BIBLE VIEW #935 — Why?

In This Issue:
Lord, What Would You Have Me Do?
Why Do I Have to Be on The Leash?
Lord, Why Am I in This Storm?”

Volume: 935     December 4, 2023
Theme: Why?

Read the FREE typeset version of this newsletter at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html (Click on #935).  Use it for your church bulletin inserts or as a ministry handout.


Lord, What Would You Have Me Do?
Bill Brinkworth

“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.” Proverbs 16:9

In this treasure trove of God’s wisdom, Proverbs 16:9 explains why some of what is happening in lives is often not understood.  The reason, especially for the child of God, may be God is directing one’s path in the direction He knows is best for them.

We often have plans and goals, but many times they do not coincide with what God’s will for our lives is.  Some dream of being a doctor, nurse, pilot, police officer, or what they are interested in doing, but never consider what God has for them to do.

No one knows us better than God, and he may know that the direction we desire for ourselves may hurt and keep us from what is best for us.  Each of us has unique abilities, and only God knows what they are and where they should best be exercised in this needy world.

As a visually handicapped person may need more guidance than a seeing-eye dog or a prodding white cane, so do we.  We think we know best but are often blind to what is good for us.  Unsure and unknowingly, we stumble through life searching for what to do.

When we are about to make wrong steps in harmful directions, it is then that the Lord may step in and redirect us.  Often, we may not like where we are going, but trusting faith should reason with us that Father knows best.  God’s way will be better for us than we could ever have imagined.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” Psalm 37:23
“For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.” Psalm 91:11
“He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.”
Psalm 121:3


Why Do I Have to Be on The Leash?
Bill Brinkworth

“C’mon, girl, let’s go for a walk,” I beckoned to the tail-wagging Labrador Retriever.

After I clipped the short leash to her collar, I walked off, expecting her to follow.  Quickly, I realized there was no dog on the other end.  Buddi had tucked her head and slipped out of her collar.

“Hmmm.” I put the collar back on, with the leash still clipped on.  As I again tried to take her for a walk, she firmly sat, refusing to go. 

Her tail wagged seriously.  She apparently wanted to roam the walking path, but did not want to be hooked to the restricting tether.  Buddi wanted to run wherever she wanted to go in the woods.

Then we had the master to dog talk.  “Listen, Buddi, I see you want to go out,” her tail wagged in agreement, “but you must be on the leash.  You don’t understand what could happen out there without my protection.  Why a snake could strike you as you curiously inspect a slithering reptile that you have never seen before.  Or you could walk in some tall weeds and pick up a load of ticks.  If you go to the wrong place, you just might get sprayed by Mr. Skunk near the grapes.  Buddi, this leash is for your protection.  I can guide you safely as we walk if you would  trust me to lead you.”

Folks, and even Christians, are much like the rebellious dog.  They do not want anyone telling them what to do, especially God.  Why?  They believe his commandments will dampen their style, although most have never read about His will and way found in the Bible.  Many see God’s commandments as a leash limiting their freedom and “fun.”

What little they know about God’s requirements may have been heard from an unreliable source.  Often, they may have heard part of His Word or never stopped to consider the context of the Bible verse.  Quickly, they jump to a conclusion that is not biblical.  Even if they hear a clear biblical commandment, they still will not obey their Creator.

Most people are naturally rebellious to anyone telling them what to do.  Many give little credence to certain laws, what parents say, school rules, employer’s requirements, and anyone else that hampers their doing their own “thing.”

However, God is not like anyone else.  He created man.  He knows humanity’s limitations, what lurks unseen in their lives that will hurt them, and what will help them.  The watch care offered by our Maker is for our good.  

God’s “leash” is not meant to be burdensome.  His guiding help is from an all-seeing and knowing God who wants to keep us safe and help us.  Our aimless, often temptation-led life can lead us to harm.  He loves us more than we can imagine and wants the best for us.

Follow God’s will and way for a productive and better life.  Lose the rebellious attitude and obey the One that only desires what will help and bless you!



Lord, Why Am I in This Storm?”
Bill Brinkowrth

“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Romans 5:2-5

Every single person has struggles.  What God allows in a person’s life often is meant to help them grow closer, stronger, and more reliant on the Lord. 

The trials another is going through may not seem to be so bad to others, but God knows that it is what is needed to test their mettle.  After successfully going through their trials, they will be able to face future storms that are allowed in their life and even encourage those with similar experiences. 

I was better able to realize the importance of our going through trials and tribulations after examining a picture of a lighthouse.  That one particular lighthouse was engulfed in waves, yet it still upheld its important purpose and was where it would do the most good.

A lighthouse is a tall structure that houses a bright light for sea-going vessels to see.  In the darkest of nights or piercing through stormy weather, ships can immediately know that they are getting close to a shoreline or dangerous, submerged rocks by seeing the tower’s warning beacon.

Although most lighthouses were constructed high above any danger from a storm’s crashing waves, this one was not.  This particular lighthouse was barely above sea level, where it often was battered by ocean waves.

The picture I saw was of the La Jument Lighthouse in northwestern France.  It was constructed in a place where there were many shipwrecks.  Between 1888 and 1904, there were 31 wrecks in the lighthouse’s area.  A wealthy French man, who almost experienced death in a shipwreck, knew how vital the lighthouse would be and financed its construction.

Because of its dangerous location and tumultuous engulfing waves, the beacon was started in 1904 but was not finished until 1911.  Its foundation was hewn in solid rock and barely stood out of the water.  There are times that the 154-foot-tall tower is battered by 65 to 97-foot waves.  Many pictures have been taken of the lighthouse boldly standing with waves appearing to cover the beacon completely.

Despite its construction’s hardships, it still stands and has saved many lives and shipwrecks.  It was a savior to many because it was built where it was most needed.  If it did not experience all the violent waves it has, it would not be where it could warn and spare so many lives.

Like the La Jument lighthouse, those Christians who have faced tremendous hardships, trials, weathered their “storms,” and are still standing are an important encouragement and boost to the hope and faith of many around them.  If they had not gone through such difficult times, they may not have been the “light” that gives others hope and inspiration to withstand their storms.  Most may not know why they faced so many difficulties, but God may have used their experiences to guide others to safe harbors.

Observing eyes are often on those who proclaim to be children of God.  They are often scrutinized for their behavior through trials and difficulties.  When they react like the unsaved and scream, holler, and curse when in the pit of despair, the name of “Christian” gets one more black eye as they are a poor testimony. 

However, those who have their foundations anchored when in adversity enable them to continue to stand proud and tall after being bludgeoned by what the world recognizes as terrible experiences.  They are the “lighthouses” that shine through the gloom of affliction.  They are the ones who can give others hope that they, too, can weather their storms.

The survivors of tremendous adversity also show that a foundation based on biblical principles can help others weather through whatever they have to face.  Their perseverance and strength prove that Christ can lead the way through whatever a person faces.

The pounding “waves” in your life can either make you shake your fist at God or draw you closer to Him for His help.  How does the world see you faring through your trials? 

Is your perseverance through what God has allowed you to experience a beacon of hope and victory, or is it making it clear that you have no expectation or directing “light” to guide you through your trials?  Be a La Jument Lighthouse and show that God can give you the strength to withstand your ordeal.
“The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”  Psalm 18:2

“He who knows no hardships will know no hardihood.  He who faces no calamity will need no courage.  Mysterious though it is, the characteristics in human nature which we love best grow in a soil with a strong mixture of trouble”  
— Harry Enersib Fosdick